Harold F. Cretsinger

Harold F. Cretsinger, age 83, of Battle Creek passed away peacefully on Wednesday afternoon, March 15, 2023.  

Harold was born in Kalamazoo on October 12, 1939, the son of Raymond and Dorothy (Switzer) Cretsinger and graduated from Battle Creek Central High School where he excelled in football.  He continued his education at Kellogg Community College and retired from the Kellogg Company in 1995 after more than 35 years.  He also volunteered and “retired” from the Gooberville Grocery Store, where he served for more than 13 years.  Harold was known for his incredible work ethic and willingness to help others.

Harold married the “Love of His Life”, G. Marie Beisheim on October 25, 1958; she sadly preceded him in death on November 9, 2017.  Surviving are his daughters, Gloria Cretsinger of Battle Creek, Kathi (John) Fahl of Kalamazoo, Patricia (Tim) Halder of Battle Creek, and Anne (Kipp) Walters of Tekonsha; 7 grandchildren, Jessica (Andy), Jon, Justin (Jenna), Matthew, Danielle, Macy and Owen; 8 great-grandchildren, Austin, Michael, Eathyn, Jordan, Joylin, Jiliana, Joella, and Will; and two brothers, Robert (Nita) Cretsinger and Terry Cretsinger of Colorado. Harold was preceded in death by his parents; a grandson, Christopher; and a brother, Charlie. 

Harold was active with the Boys Scouts for many years, and was a member of the Kellogg 25-year club, the Kellogg Retirees, and longtime member of the former Birchwood United Methodist Church.  He loved his dogs, “Katie” and “Clifford”, and tolerated the cats.  Harold enjoyed hunting, fishing, and woodworking.

A memorial gathering to celebrate Harold’s life will be held 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., Friday, March 24^th at Battle Creek Friends Church.  In lieu of flowers, memorials directed to the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or the Great Lakes Golden Retriever Rescue, would be appreciated.  Arrangements by Farley Estes Dowdle Funeral Home & Cremation Care, Battle Creek.